DESCRIPTION:

This training module is for civilian mental health providers who want to develop a better understanding about how the military works and who comprises the armed forces. It provides an overview of military culture to include basics about its history, organizational structure, core values, branches of the service, mission, and operations, as well as the differences between the active and reserve components. Participants acquire greater competency in working with Service members by learning military culture and terminology, and by discussing how aspects of the military culture impact behaviors and perspectives.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Characterize the structure and major components of the United States military.

2. Articulate common characteristics of the military population and how they compare to the general population.

3. Substantiate the importance of a distinct culture to the military. 

4. Appraise elements of the military experience and lifestyle that are integral to military culture.